Nagaland Police have cracked down on an illegal drug distribution network operating out of Mokokchung Town. An investigation, sparked by the discovery of illicit substances in Longkhim, has unveiled a chain of events leading to the suspension of a pharmacy’s drug license in Mokokchung.
According to a press release from Nagaland Police, the incident began with the discovery of Alprazolam Tablets and Buprenorphine Sublingual drugs in the possession of one Yangpili Sangtam during a search of his premises on 29 April 2024. This discovery prompted the Longkhim Police Station to register a First Information Report (FIR) under Section 27(b) of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act.
During investigation, the accused Yangpili Sangtam revealed that he had purchased Alprazolam 0.5 tablets from one Setingchumla. Subsequently, efforts were made to trace the supply chain and it was revealed that the drugs had been purchased from a person named Choting. It was determined that the drugs originated from Grace Pharmacy located at AM Road, Mokokchung Town.
Upon discovering these details, Tuensang Police promptly notified the Drug Inspector (CMO) of Mokokchung district regarding the violation of laws concerning the sale of prescription drugs without proper medical authorization by Grace Pharmacy. Simultaneously, legal procedures were followed to conduct searches at both the pharmacy and the residence of its proprietor.
During the investigation, a substantial quantity of drugs — specifically 4,800 tablets of Alprazolam — had been procured from Grace Pharmacy without the required medical prescription. This action contravenes Government Notification NO: HFW 22/B-2/2001/47 dated 3rd February 2023, which regulates the sale of restricted drugs under the Drugs & Cosmetics Act and its related rules.
In response to the detailed report submitted by Tuensang Police, the Drug Control Officer under the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) of Mokokchung district, and the Director of Health and Family Welfare, Kohima.
In accordance with Rule 66 of The Drugs and Cosmetics Rules, 1945, and following the recommendation of the screening committee, the Drug Controller’s office in Nagaland has suspended the drug license of Grace Pharmacy, the press release informed.
Meanwhile, the Nagaland Police commended the proactive measures taken by the Drug Controller in this case and reiterated its commitment to combating the unauthorized sale of prescription drugs as part of the ongoing “War Against Drugs” initiative launched by the Nagaland Government.
The Nagaland Police further urged all pharmacies and drug shops to strictly adhere to legal requirements and refrain from engaging in the unlawful sale of drugs.
The owners as well as the employees are both liable for legal action besides cancellation or suspension of licenses for violation of laws, Nagaland Police said.